Most women assume that healthy living is all about getting enough sleep, eating right, and exercising. Unfortunately, very few people understand that a combination of regular health screening goes a long way in improving quality of life.
Moreover, regular medical check-ups delay the onset of life-threatening conditions and early aging. Given that a human body dramatically changes over time, it’s vital to take preventive measures early in life. Mainly, doctors recommend the following crucial health screening for women above 20 years.
1. Hearing Analysis
A hearing test is necessary when women hit 40 years. This is because as we age, our hearing ability declines gradually without significant signs. It would be best to consider getting your tests once every five years to detect complications on time.
Reports indicate that about 25% of women aged 65 to 74 have hearing loss that affects their ability to understand everyday speech. To avoid this, report any unusual sign to a reliable medic immediately it occurs. Common warning indicators include declining hearing, pain, persistent noise in the ears, loss of balance, discharge, and so forth.
2. Blood Pressure Test
Low or high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, congestive cardiac failure, and kidney damage. The test is usually done using an instrument called a sphygmomanometer.
3. Pap smear
Pap smear is necessary for childbearing women from around 21 years. Younger women can undergo the test once in three years. However, if you are sexually active and above 26 years, ensure that you do one annually. Then get all recommended vaccinations, including the HPV vaccine, before sexual activity begins. Basically, the test detects cell changes in the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer.
4. Breast Exam/ Mammogram
If your family has a history of cancer, get annual breast tests from 20 years. Often, qualified health feels each breast for lumps or unusual indicators that translate to cancer. In the process, inquire how to self examine from reliable doctors or online sites.
5. Cholesterol levels
Excess cholesterol causes cardiovascular and other diseases. If you have high cholesterol levels, your doctor might prescribe a low-fat diet and medicine to lower them.
6. Type 2 Diabetes
This condition happens when the body fails to use its insulin properly. It is associated with obesity and age. Luckily, proper advice on diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes can reduce the health risks associated with diabetes.
7. Ovarian Cancer Screening
While some ovarian cancer tests are invasive and tedious, like immunolabelling, technological advancement brings forth better options. For instance, the cancer strip makes ovarian cancer a lot easier to detect in its early stages because it does not require the use of expensive and time-consuming polyclonal antibodies testing.
8. Colorectal cancer
Talk with your doctor about this health screen when you hit 50. Also, consider reducing red meat, processed foods, alcohol consumption, smoking, and excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun, excessive x-rays, or gamma rays.
Other vital health tests for women include dental, eye check-ups, and general well-being. It is critical to confirm with your physician the best testing methods within your age scope. In addition, insist on basic blood analysis, including triglyceride levels, homocysteine concentration, and a complete blood count (CBC) with differential cell count. In addition, imaging techniques such as X-ray and mammography for breast cancer screening are suitable for appropriate age groups.
All in all, additional examinations and health screening should be considered if an individual has enhanced risk factors like family history to certain ailments.
Tips to Better Aging in Women
Taking care of your body from an early age translates to a longer and healthier life. Keep reading for imperative guidelines on how to prevent premature aging.
Eat Right
A balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates helps boost energy levels. In addition, it keeps the body healthy while reducing your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. As women get older, it is recommended that they consume at least one cup of food from each food group. Do not forget to add plenty of clean water for healthier skin and body.
Stay Out Of The Sun
For women above 40 years, start applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ on sunny days to avoid the harmful effects of UV rays. Be sure to cover all exposed areas, including the tops of feet, ears, and necklines. Women with fair or sensitive skin should inquire from a qualified dermatologist on the best brands to use.
Avoid or Limit Processed Foods
Most additives in processed foods can be harmful to older adults. Often they lack essential vitamins and minerals your body needs. Not only this, but many processed foods are high in sugar which is detrimental as you get older.
Regular Exercise
It does not matter how old you are; regular exercise is vital for any living being. Remember that you do not have to enroll in expensive programs to remain trim. Instead, start from simple home-based activities like skipping or jumping jerks. The bottom line is to burn down more calories than you consume daily.
Sleep Enough
Experts recommend at least eight hours of sound sleep daily. This is vital in helping the body to rejuvenate and repair torn tissues.
Prevent Falls
Regular falls can be hazardous to aged people. Therefore, wear comfortable shoes with good traction that fits well. Avoid slippery surfaces. Get exercise equipment adjusted by professionals to operate correctly. Finally, install grab bars in the shower, kitchen, and toilet to prevent falls.
Final Thoughts
Even if you do not practice healthy living, it’s never too late to make positive changes. Start small by incorporating a more nutritious diet with better sleep and remaining active. Not only will these healthy habits help you look and feel better now, but they will keep your body in great shape as you age, too.
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